Torch Guide - Flashlight Information

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FLASHLIGHT GUIDE

Link to our Torch accessories page.
We only state the info supplied by the manufacturer and add anything we are able to test. If you are not happy with any purchase it can be returned for a full refund.

BULBS

INCANDESCENTS

Traditional bulbs with high-light output from heated filaments in either an empty vacuum or one filled with a gas for increased output and longer life.
Ranging from Krypton at the cheaper end to Halogen and then Xenon at the higher end.

Bi-Pin	Simple glass capsule with protruding pins, small enough for spare bulbs to be carried in the torch. Used in mini Mag-Lights.
PR Based	The commonest bulbs, with glass domes fixed to a metal base.
Bulb Assembly	The most secure of fittings as found in many top end flashlights like Surefire etc.

LEDs

Increased battery life by up to 10x that of incandescent bulbs.
Will not blow if dropped like incandescents do.

3 & 5mm LEDs	Cheap to produces, often grouped together for higher output.
Luxeon	High-powered LEDs.
Cree & Seoul	New high-powered LEDs (used on many of our torches).

LUX GUIDE
0.0001 lux	Overcast night
0.001 lux	Starlight
0.01 lux	Quarter moon
0.1 lux	Full moon
0.1 lux	Deep twilight
10 lux	Twilight
100 lux	Very dark day
1000 lux	Overcast day
10000 lux	Full daylight
100000 lux	Sunlight

REFLECTORS
Designed to force forward otherwise wasted light.
Smooth	Used for a far reaching beam.
Textured	Produces a shorter but higher quality beam.

SWITCHES
Bezel Twist	One of the most common as it offers good water resistances and little can go wrong. Requires two hands free to twist on/off.
Slide Switch	Fairly common alternative for one handed on/off. Used on many economy torches. Hard to waterproof.
Side Click	Found on larger Mag-Lites with a waterproof rubber seal.
Tailcap Click	Used on most of our torches. On/Off by thumb pressure. Good choice for tactical torches and often allows for the fitting of a pressure pad tail.

BATTERIES
SIZES
Lithium Coin Cells	Very small batteries found in many keychain torches and lasers.
Lithium CR123a	High output batteries each providing 3 volts.
AAA	Most effective in keychain lights and used in batches in headlamps and some pocket torches.
AA	The most common and widely available format in all types of torch.
D	Used in large and heavy torches for long run times.
CHEMISTRY
Alkaline	The most common widely available battery type.
Rechargeable NiMH	Reduced running costs in place of Alkaline batteries. However lower output and run times.
Lithium	Used for high-drain devices. Light-weight and cope well with low temperatures. AA and CR123a format. 10 year shelf life.
Rechargeable Lithium Ion	Reduced running costs. RCR123a and many more.

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